Innovations in Sustainable Tourism: Shaping the Future of Destinations

A special issue of Administrative Sciences (ISSN 2076-3387).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 28 February 2025 | Viewed by 78263

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
CiTUR, Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
Interests: smart destination; smart tourism; tourist perceptions; destination image and imagery; destination choice; tourism marketing; neuroscience applied to tourism; tourism sustainability marketing; nautical tourism; product and tourism branding; film-induced tourism; higher education and research performance; bibliometrics analysis; gamification; sustainability; hospitality
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
CiTUR, Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
Interests: territorial brand; branding; regional development; territorial development and sustainability; neuroscience applied to tourism; nautical tourism; destination tourism; destination branding; destination image; cultural studies; urban and regional studies; social communication; destination management; sustainability

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
CiTUR—Centre for Tourism Research, Development and Innovation, Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
Interests: financial accounting; hospitality management accounting; financial sustainability; revenue management
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
CiTUR, Polytechnic University of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
Interests: marketing management; tourism management; hospitality management; leisure entertainment management; destination tourism; destination branding; destination image; destination management marketing; sustainability tourism

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue aims to explore sustainable innovations in tourism and their impact on shaping the future of destinations. With the growing awareness of environmental, social and economic issues related to tourism, there is an urgent need to identify and analyze innovative practices that promote sustainability in tourism destinations.

Over the last decade, the development and use of technological innovations have expanded at a fast rate and transformed the field of tourism. In the context of tourism, technological innovations are linked to the concepts of smart tourism and smart destination (Dias and Cardoso, 2019). Perhaps the model that best explains the linking of the concepts involved is that developed by Gretzel et al. (2018), where the model works as a system of pillars. Smart tourism is anchored by a smart destination at the base, a smart business in the middle and a smart experience at the top; interconnecting the pillars are mega-data (including data collection, sharing and processing) as well as conventional smart tourism management systems. In fact, smart tourism within the innovation context refers to the competitive advantage that arises from the use of smart technologies, such as sensors, beacons, mobile phone apps, radio-frequency identification (RFID), near-field communication (NFC), smart meters, the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, relational databases, etc., which together form a smart digital ecosystem based on innovations and new business models (Cardoso and Araújo Vila, 2019). In short, smart tourism can be summed up in a single word, "smartness", which simply refers to the smart way of diagnosing, planning and managing tourism by relying on such smart technologies. However, this “smartness” of tourism destination planning and management is also linked to the sustainable future of tourism destinations. Sustainability values applied to tourism destinations are accented in several dimensions, including the social, the economic, the environmental and the institutional, and includes all types of tourism (Cardoso et al. 2023). Sustainability has been referenced in many ways in tourism research, which has stressed that development must focus on productivity so it is sustained in the long term for future generations (Butler, 1999).

Regarding sustainability applied to tourism, Segittur (2019) introduced the tourism intelligence system (SIT) based on the concepts of innovation, sustainability, accessibility and technology. According to the norm that led to its creation, UNE 178501: 2015, an intelligent tourist destination (DTI) is “a territory accessible to all, which makes use of innovation and technology, guarantees sustainable tourism development in its three aspects (economic, socio- cultural and environmental) to improve the tourist experience and the quality of life of the citizen and is governed by a Management Body”.

Several models of tourist intelligence systems applied to smart destinations have already been suggested. However, only the ones by Femenia-Serra and Ivards-Baidal (2018) and by Gretzel et al. (2018) require us to look beyond the interests of the tourists and to pay more attention to the tourists’ perceptions about their experiences in smart destinations. The definition and model of smart tourism by Gretzel et al. (2018) actually conceives a layer dedicated to tourist experiences of a smart destination (e.g., gamification and virtual reality, among others). Moreover, a research gap has been identified that defines conceptual schemes to characterize tourists in the context of a smart destination (Femenia-Serra & Ivards-Baidal, 2018; Gretzel 2018). Moreover, Gretzel (2018) argues that it is essential that the areas of smart tourism should involve experience and stresses the fact that the tourist experience at a smart destination requires conceptualization based not only on the experiences that tourists can have in a particular destination, but also on the experiences on the way to and from specific destinations within a region. The author points out that in this area there is a lot of conceptual work to be conducted to carry forward the idea of a smart destination (Gretzel, 2018). On the other hand, there is also a gap in how tourists perceive new technologies in the context of smart destinations, and as Gretzel (2018) argues, it is crucial to define the tourists’ perceptions of experiences at these smart destinations, that is, to define the imagery of tourist experiences at smart destinations. In light of the above, this Special Issue aims to fill in these research gaps in innovation and sustainability as applied to tourism in order to shape the future of tourism destinations. The proposed topics are:

  • Innovations applied to tourism destinations and hospitality connected with sustainability.
  • Innovations in tourism products (sun and sea, cultural, rural, nautical, ecotourism, city tourism, etc.) and sustainability.
  • Innovation in hospitality financial management.
  • Financial sustainability in the hospitality sector.
  • Balanced scorecards in the hospitality industry.
  • Smart destinations and sustainability.
  • Tourist intelligence systems applied to smart destinations, driving the future of destinations.
  • The tourists’ experience at the smart destinations.
  • The tourists’ perceptions/destination image and imagery of the smart destinations.
  • Tourists' perceptions of smart technologies.
  • The experiences between tourists in a smart destination environment.
  • Place branding, destination branding, destination image and territorial brand.
  • Best practices in sustainable tourism management.
  • Innovation in sustainable hospitality.
  • Ecotourism and nature tourism.
  • Community-based tourism and the local economy.
  • Sustainable transport and mobility in tourist destinations.
  • Sustainable tourism education and awareness.

Other topics related to the theme of this Special Issue will also be considered.

Review Process: All articles submitted for this Special Issue will undergo a peer-review process, ensuring the quality and originality of the contributions. We welcome theoretical articles, case studies and empirical research that address the proposed topics or other innovative perspectives related to sustainability in tourism.

  • Almeida, G.G.F. Estratégias das marcas territoriais na representação e reputação dos territórios no âmbito do desenvolvimento regional. EURE Rev. Latinoam. De Estud. Urbano Reg. 2022, 49, 1–24.
  • Almeida, G.G.F.d.; Almeida, P.; Cardoso, L.; Lima Santos, L. Uses and functions of the territorial brand over time: an interdisciplinary mapping. Sustainability 2023, 15, 6448.
  • Almeida, G.G.F.; Cardoso, L. Discussions between Place Branding and Territorial Brand in Regional Development-A Classification Model Proposal for a Territorial Brand. Sustainability 2022, 14, 6669.
  • Araujo Vila, N.; Cardoso, L.; Diego, R.T.; Matos Pereira, A. Gamification as a Toll for Smart Tourism. In Ebook Smart Systems Design, Applications, and Challenges, 1st ed.; IGI Global 2020; pp. 363–385. ISNN:2327-0411
  • Araújo, N.; Barroso, B.; Gomes Azevedo, R.; Cardoso, L. Gamification applied to the tourism sector. Int. J. Mark. Commun. New Media 2019, 7, 5–22.
  • Araújo, N.; Cardoso, L.; Araújo, A. Communication 2.0 in the Spanish tourism sector. Analysis of official sites for tourism promotion. Int. J. Mark. Commun. New Media Spec. Issue 5 Tour. Mark. 2019, 5–25.
  • Buonincontri, P.; Micera, R. The experience co-creation in smart tourism destinations: a multiple case analysis of European destinations. Inf. Technol. Tour. 2016, 16, 285–315. doi: 10.1007/s40558-016-0060-5.
  • Butler, R.W. Sustainable tourism: A state‐of‐the‐art review. Tour. Geogr. 1999, 1, 7–25.
  • Cardoso, L.; Araújo, V. Smart Tourism, Smart Destinations and Smart Tourists. In La actividade Turística Española en 2018, 1st ed.; Association Española de Expertos Cientificos en Turismo (AECIT), Editorial Sintesis, 2019; pp.373–381
  • Cardoso, L.; Araújo Vila, N.; Araújo, A.; Costa, A.; Dias, F. Destination Brand Gnosis (DBGnosis): Na Innovative Tool for Tourism Research. RTEC Rev. Tur. Estud. Práticas 2020, 9, 1–17.
  • Cardoso, L. et al. A Bibliometric Model to Analyze Country Research Performance: SciVal Topic Prominence Approach in Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality. Sustainability 2020, 12, 1–26.
  • Cardoso, L. et al. Accessing Neuromarketing scientific performance: Research gaps and emerging topics. Behav. Sci. 2022, 12, 1–20.
  • Cardoso, L. et al. Features of Nautical Tourism in Portugal - Projected Image with a Sustainability Marketing Approach. Sustainability 2023, 15, 1–30. doi.org/10.3390/su15118805.
  • Cardoso, L. et al. How to Employ Zipf’s Laws for Content Analysis in Tourism Studies? Int. J. Hosp. Tour. Syst. (IJHTS) 2021, 15,1–16.
  • Cardoso, L. et al. Topic prominence of tourism and hospitality scientific research. Adv. Hosp. Tour. Res. (AHTR) 2021, 9, 179–204.
  • Cardoso, L.; Brea, J.A.F.; Santana, L. La Imagen del destino turístico. In Cardoso, L. & Dias, F. La Imagen y la Promoción de los Destinos Turísticos (pp101–129.). Spain: Editorial Aranzadi, S.A.U. - THOMSON REUTEURS, 2018; pp. 101–135.
  • Cardoso, L.; Dias, F.; Araújo Vila, N.; Filipe Araújo, A. Destination Brand Gnosis (DBGnosis): cuando analizar la información es primordial para desarrollar el destino turístico. In Las Fuentes de Información turísticas em foco; Soares, J., Baptista, M. L., Eds.; University of Santiago de Compostela: Editorial Aranzadi, S.A.U.-Thomson Reuteurs, Spain, 2018; pp.309–323.
  • Cardoso, L.; Estevão, C.; Fernandes, C.; Alves, H. Film-Induced Tourism: A Systematic Literature Review. Tour. Manag. Stud. 2017, 13, 23–30. DOI: 10.18089/tms.2017.13303.
  • Cardoso, Lucília, Meng-Mei Chen, Arthur Araújo, Giovana G.F. de Almeida, Francisco Dias, and Luiz Moutinho. Accessing Neuromarketing Scientific Performance: Research Gaps and Emerging Topics. Behav. Sci. 2022, 12. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs12020055.
  • Dias, F.; Cardoso, L. Hotel Classification versus online recommendation in the age of smart destinations. In Innovation and Smart Cities: Challenges and Opportunities, 1st ed.; The Help: Brazil, 2019; pp. 132–154.
  • Dias, F.; Cardoso, L. How can brand equity for tourism destinations be used to preview tourists’ destination choice? An overview from the top of Tower of Babel. Tour. Manag. Stud. 2017, 13, 13–23.
  • Femenia-Serra, F., & Ivars-Baidal, J. A. Do smart tourism destinations really work? The case of Benidorm. Asia Pac. J. Tour. Res. 2018, 1–20, 2018. doi: 10.1080/10941665.2018.1561478.
  • Gretzel, U.; Ham, J.; Koo, C.Y. Creating the city destination of the future: The case of smart Seoul. In Managing Asian Destinations; Springer: Singapore, 2018; pp. 199–214.
  • Mondéjar-Jiménez, J.; Ferrari, G. Sustainable Tourism Destinations. J. Hosp. Tour. Res. 2022, 46, 1239–1240.
  • Morand, J. C. et al. Tourism ambassadors as special destination image inducers. Enlightening Tour. 2021, 11, 194–230.
  • Santos, L.; Cardoso, L.; Araújo Vila, N.; Fraiz-Brea, J.A. Sustainability Perceptions in Tourism and Hospitality: A Mixed-Method Bibliometric Approach. Sustainability 2020, 12, 8852. https://doi.org/10.3390/su12218852.
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  • Weng, L.; He, B.; Liu, L.; Li, C.; Zhang, X. Sustainability Assessment of Cultural Heritage Tourism: Case Study of Pingyao Ancient City in China. Sustainability 2019.
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Dr. Lucilia Cardoso
Dr. Giovana Goretti Feijó de Almeida
Dr. Luís Lima Santos
Dr. Paulo Almeida
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • sustainable tourism
  • tourism innovation
  • tourism destination
  • sustainable development
  • smart tourism

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Published Papers (13 papers)

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21 pages, 767 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Effectiveness of Digital Marketing in Enhancing Tourist Experiences and Satisfaction: A Study of Thailand’s Tourism Services
by Mohammed Ali Sharafuddin, Meena Madhavan and Sutee Wangtueai
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110273 - 22 Oct 2024
Viewed by 2085
Abstract
Inbound digital marketing strategies play a vital role in the tourism industry, significantly influencing visitors’ decision-making processes, enhancing tourist experiences, and ensuring post-consumption satisfaction. This study explores the effectiveness of digital marketing strategies in shaping tourists’ perceptions of service quality and sustainability and [...] Read more.
Inbound digital marketing strategies play a vital role in the tourism industry, significantly influencing visitors’ decision-making processes, enhancing tourist experiences, and ensuring post-consumption satisfaction. This study explores the effectiveness of digital marketing strategies in shaping tourists’ perceptions of service quality and sustainability and their subsequent impact on overall satisfaction and behavioural intentions. This paper developed a conceptual framework and hypotheses through a comprehensive literature review to assess the causal relationships between digital marketing effectiveness, perceived destination service quality, perceived destination sustainability quality, tourist satisfaction, and behavioural intention. The empirical analysis was conducted using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) on data collected from 195 international tourists in Thailand’s coastal regions. The results reveal that while digital marketing effectiveness directly influences tourists’ perceptions of service and sustainability quality, it indirectly influences tourist satisfaction and behavioural intentions through these perceptions. The findings highlight the critical role of aligning digital marketing strategies with service quality and sustainability initiatives. Moreover, the developed construct serves as a valuable tool for assessing and maintaining the destination image, helping tourism providers to improve their offerings and continuously foster long-term customer relationships. Full article
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17 pages, 457 KiB  
Article
Intelligent Exchange of Sustainable Tourist Habits among the EU Member States
by Fátima Leal and Micaela Pinho
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14060128 - 19 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1147
Abstract
Despite much research being conducted within the scope of sustainable tourism, more progress has yet to be made in defining how close or far different countries are from achieving this goal. Consequently, this paper aims to evaluate and compare the commitment of citizens, [...] Read more.
Despite much research being conducted within the scope of sustainable tourism, more progress has yet to be made in defining how close or far different countries are from achieving this goal. Consequently, this paper aims to evaluate and compare the commitment of citizens, as tourists, from the 27 member states of the European Union to sustainable tourism. A map of sustainability was developed through the use of machine learning algorithms. A cluster analysis was performed, followed by a sustainable rating. The main findings indicate the existence of three country segments among the European Union member states according to the involvement of its citizens as tourists with sustainable practices: highly committed, moderately committed, and uncommitted. Based on these segments, we proposed a recommendation system that suggests the top-five countries where tourists could exchange sustainable tourism habits based on the idea of contagion or imitation behaviours among individuals across an extensive set of everyday decisions. The results reveal significant variations in sustainable tourism practices across member states, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for harmonisation. By implementing this recommendation system, we facilitate the adoption of sustainable habits among tourists and stakeholders, driving a more unified approach to sustainability in the multiple tourism destinations. This study shows no convergence between the 27 European Union member states regarding sustainable tourism. Therefore, political policies are necessary so that all citizens converge on sustainable tourist habits and the European Union contributes, as a whole, to sustainable tourism. Full article
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21 pages, 1574 KiB  
Article
Shaping the Future of Destinations: New Clues to Smart Tourism Research from a Neuroscience Methods Approach
by Lucília Cardoso and Carla Fraga
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14060106 - 21 May 2024
Viewed by 7404
Abstract
In the context of the technological era, the smart tourism construct serves as a bridge between human and the artificial worlds, combining social sciences and neurosciences. This study aims to explore smart tourism through neuroscientific methods in order to shape the future of [...] Read more.
In the context of the technological era, the smart tourism construct serves as a bridge between human and the artificial worlds, combining social sciences and neurosciences. This study aims to explore smart tourism through neuroscientific methods in order to shape the future of tourism destinations, using a hybrid methodology combining bibliometric techniques and content analysis. The findings reveal the integration of diverse scientific domains, highlighting a transdisciplinary approach. They offer clear evidence that neuroscientific methods in smart tourism integrate multiple areas of scientific knowledge, surpassing disciplinary boundaries. “Destination” stands out alongside “emotion”, “visual attention” and eye tracking (ET). The collaboration network reveals the emergence of a new school, called neurotourism in the 21st century, formed mainly by actors and organizations from the Global North, evoking the need to include the Global South in the research scenario. The predominant methods include ET, heart rate (HR), and electroencephalography (EEG), suggesting triangulation with traditional methods for robust results. Virtual reality emerges as the primary immersive technology, promising insights when integrated with neurosciences. This study’s practical and theoretical contributions guide smart tourism strategies and enhance destination experiences through neuroscientific methods, addressing a gap in the scientific literature while advancing ontological and epistemological understanding. Full article
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25 pages, 2726 KiB  
Article
Film-Induced Tourism as a Key Factor for Promoting Tourism Destination Image: The James Bond Saga Case
by Noelia Araújo-Vila, Lucília Cardoso, Giovana Goretti Feijó Almeida and Paulo Almeida
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14050094 - 3 May 2024
Viewed by 4448
Abstract
This research extensively discusses the connection between destination image and films influencing tourism. Despite the worldwide fame of the James Bond saga and extensive publications on the subject, research into the role of tourism promotion in the image of destinations is still scarce, [...] Read more.
This research extensively discusses the connection between destination image and films influencing tourism. Despite the worldwide fame of the James Bond saga and extensive publications on the subject, research into the role of tourism promotion in the image of destinations is still scarce, and there is no specific focus on analysing promotional aspects in relation to film-induced tourism. This study focuses on the influence of cinematographic images on the destination image perception and promotion, specifically exploring the case of the James Bond saga as a practical case. With 25 films released since 1962, the James Bond saga provides a basis for evaluating cinematic presence in tourism promotion strategies. This research proposes the content analysis of the official tourist websites of 23 destinations where the James Bond saga was shot, which offer some tourist products linked to the saga. The key findings provide valuable insights into the promotion of James Bond saga tourism destinations, the role of films in promoting destinations, and the tourism products developed from the saga films. The results provide visual outputs about the target image of the film shooting locations, and the text analysis provides keywords linked to the theme. The study’s methodology contributes to the discourse on film tourism and destination image topics and brings practical and theoretical contributions to both academia and destination managers. Full article
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16 pages, 659 KiB  
Article
Hospitality Environmental Indicators Enhancing Tourism Destination Sustainable Management
by Filipa Campos, Conceição Gomes, Cátia Malheiros and Luís Lima Santos
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14030042 - 27 Feb 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2834
Abstract
Environmental aspects are considered a specific process that requires a multidisciplinary analysis, as the application of indicators in organizations stems from effective performance management; the tourism sector is no exception. In 2015, the United Nations formulated 17 sustainable development goals to contribute to [...] Read more.
Environmental aspects are considered a specific process that requires a multidisciplinary analysis, as the application of indicators in organizations stems from effective performance management; the tourism sector is no exception. In 2015, the United Nations formulated 17 sustainable development goals to contribute to a common vision for people and the planet. The main objective of this study is to propose a framework of science-based environmental sustainability indicators for the hospitality industry, which can be used by hotel managers to improve the efficiency of sustainable management of tourism destinations. This study used a mixed methodology of systematic review and content analysis, which is an innovative methodological approach; an in-depth analysis of various scientific articles, consultancy firms’ websites, and technical books was carried out. The results categorized the environmental indicators into four domains: water, energy, waste, and emissions. After a framework was established with 24 environmental indicators, the most relevant were water consumption per guest, water consumption per occupied room, and energy consumption per square meter/foot. However, there were disparities in the use of indicators between the scientific literature, consultancy firms, and the technical books. In this way, there is a need to create stronger relationships between these sources for effective adoption by hoteliers, allowing for adequate environmental indicators with positive impacts on the tourism destination management. Full article
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17 pages, 1236 KiB  
Article
Community-Based Tourism and Best Practices with the Sustainable Development Goals
by Leonilo Alves de Abreu, Marinês da Conceição Walkowski, André Riani Costa Perinotto and Júlia Fragoso da Fonseca
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(2), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14020036 - 18 Feb 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 15703
Abstract
Community-based tourism (CBT) operates on a paradigm of community self-governance wherein traditional communities assume the role of instigators and protagonists in the realm of tourism within their territories. Within this framework, CBT emerges as a means of realizing the sustainable development goals (SDGs) [...] Read more.
Community-based tourism (CBT) operates on a paradigm of community self-governance wherein traditional communities assume the role of instigators and protagonists in the realm of tourism within their territories. Within this framework, CBT emerges as a means of realizing the sustainable development goals (SDGs) articulated in the United Nations’ Agenda 2030, outlined in 2015. The present study aims to compare three TBC communities with the SDG criteria and their contribution to the 2023 Agenda. To achieve this aim, we employed a methodological approach rooted in case study, leveraging secondary sources and adopting a qualitative methodology. The principal findings underscore that the three scrutinized CBT communities—Tekoá-Pirá, Chã de Jardim, and Amucafé, located in Brazil—directly contribute to the attainment of seven SDGs and indirectly influence two others. As prospective research avenues, we advocate exploring additional initiatives and implementing empirical studies to delve more profoundly into the realities of these communities. Full article
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19 pages, 352 KiB  
Article
Exploratory Study of Romanian Generation Z Perceptions of Green Restaurants
by Daniel I. Chiciudean, Vanessa P. Shonkwiler, Iulia C. Mureșan, Alina Zaharia and Gabriela O. Chiciudean
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14010021 - 22 Jan 2024
Viewed by 3065
Abstract
The hospitality industry has taken advantage of consumers’ increasing concerns regarding environmental issues. Worldwide, green restaurants have increased their profitability by using environmental attributes as a competitive advantage. In Romania, restaurants could profit from this new trend. This study aims to determine the [...] Read more.
The hospitality industry has taken advantage of consumers’ increasing concerns regarding environmental issues. Worldwide, green restaurants have increased their profitability by using environmental attributes as a competitive advantage. In Romania, restaurants could profit from this new trend. This study aims to determine the perception of Generation Z consumers regarding green restaurants, since these younger consumers seem to have adopted more eco-friendly behavior compared to previous generations. Another objective of the study refers to assessing the importance of attributes relating to environmental protection and organic food when choosing a restaurant, consequently revealing a suitable market segment for this type of restaurant. In order to determine their degree of knowledge related to the concept of green restaurant, potential consuming behavior if implemented, and identifying the factors considered important when choosing a restaurant, this research compiles information from individuals belonging to Generation Z. Using principal component analysis, five factors were obtained, among which the “health and fresh food” was the most important. Based on the five dimensions, K-means cluster analysis led to three profiles of consumers. “Pro-environmental and convenience seekers” represent the largest cluster and should be considered the main target for future green restaurant practitioners. Additionally, our study finds an overall positive attitude toward green restaurants among the respondents and, more specifically, opinions on how these restaurants could address environmental issues and offer organic food, both important factors for Generation Z. This translates into a strong incentive for future entrepreneurs considering this business model in Romania. Full article
17 pages, 1101 KiB  
Article
Tourism Monitoring as a Strategic Tool for Tourism Management: The Perceptions of Entrepreneurs from Centro de Portugal
by Francisco Teixeira Pinto Dias, Sara Maria Rodrigues Góis and Gonçalo Nuno de Castro Oliveira Gomes
Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(9), 205; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13090205 - 17 Sep 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3654
Abstract
Gathering information on the impact of tourism in territories is fundamental for the responsible management of tourism businesses and destinations. Therefore, it is important to monitor tourism performance using indicators that can assess its impacts. Monitoring tourism is a management technique that should [...] Read more.
Gathering information on the impact of tourism in territories is fundamental for the responsible management of tourism businesses and destinations. Therefore, it is important to monitor tourism performance using indicators that can assess its impacts. Monitoring tourism is a management technique that should adopt a stakeholder network perspective, i.e., all stakeholders should be involved and collaborate with each other by sharing information to increase the competitiveness of the destination. However, it is unclear whether stakeholders are aware of the importance of monitoring and whether monitoring considers their interests, which often leads to a lack of involvement. In this study, we adopt the stakeholder network perspective with tourism entrepreneurs from Centro de Portugal, where we aimed to evaluate the importance assigned to the monitoring of tourism and to the understanding of entrepreneurs’ information needs. To do so, the same survey was conducted twice, for the first time in 2018 and later repeated in 2022. The second survey sought to analyze whether tourism entrepreneurs’ perceptions changed after the COVID-19 pandemic. We found that tourism entrepreneurs valued the economic area more than the social and environmental ones in both periods. Nevertheless, from 2018 to 2022, entrepreneurs became more committed to monitoring tourism in Centro de Portugal. Full article
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21 pages, 353 KiB  
Article
Ethics and Sustainability in Hospitality Employer Branding
by Vasco Santos, Patrícia Simão, Isabel Reis, Marta Correia Sampaio, Filipa Martinho and Bruno Sousa
Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(9), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13090202 - 13 Sep 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3211
Abstract
Tourism is currently one of the main sectors of profit for the worldwide economy. This study aims to explore ethics and sustainability in employer branding applied in the hotel industry, which is intended to correlate these very current and little-explored themes. This study [...] Read more.
Tourism is currently one of the main sectors of profit for the worldwide economy. This study aims to explore ethics and sustainability in employer branding applied in the hotel industry, which is intended to correlate these very current and little-explored themes. This study aims to explore the investigation of these concepts that have grown, especially in the area of tourism and hospitality, as a way to better understand how the hotel sector can improve and develop strategic tools to achieve organisational success and capture the best talent. Methodologically, a Delphi method (three rounds) was performed through 26 participants recognised as experts of three major associations within the hotel industry in Portugal. As the main outcome, this research validated the Ethics and Sustainability in Hospitality Employer Branding Model, comprising three dimensions (HRM and EB Practices; Factors of business ethics and environmental sustainability; and Advantages of UH in implementing the EB strategy and RS communication) and underlying categories. Findings and practical implications to management are presented. Full article
30 pages, 2937 KiB  
Article
A DEMATEL-ISM Integrated Modeling Approach of Influencing Factors Shaping Destination Image in the Tourism Industry
by Ammar Y. Alqahtani and Anas A. Makki
Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(9), 201; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13090201 - 12 Sep 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2470
Abstract
Tourism is an upcoming industry with a high potential for future growth. Many factors influencing destination image (DI) are affecting tourism development. Therefore, studying factors influencing DI is essential. This research study aims to model the factors influencing DI in the tourism industry. [...] Read more.
Tourism is an upcoming industry with a high potential for future growth. Many factors influencing destination image (DI) are affecting tourism development. Therefore, studying factors influencing DI is essential. This research study aims to model the factors influencing DI in the tourism industry. A total of 15 factors were the focus of the study. Data on the factors were collected from 10 tourism industry experts. An integrated modeling approach was adopted using the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) and Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM). Interrelationships between the factors, causal effects, relative importance weights, ranks, and driving and dependence powers were analyzed to develop causal and interpretive structures. The developed model revealed that political stability is foundational to other aspects of DI. Then, factors related to safety and security, policy rules and regulations, tourism infrastructure, information and communication technologies, environment, economic development and affluence, fairs, exhibits, and festivals in a destination should be considered. These affect others related to health and hygiene, transport infrastructure, natural and cultural resources, human resources, quality of services, prices, hospitality, friendliness, and receptiveness aspects in a destination. The developed model provides a valuable framework for decision-makers in the tourism industry to enhance and shape the DI. Full article
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21 pages, 4069 KiB  
Article
Digital Technologies for Sustainable Tourism Destinations: State of the Art and Research Agenda
by Youssef El Archi, Brahim Benbba, Moaaz Kabil and Lóránt Dénes Dávid
Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(8), 184; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13080184 - 10 Aug 2023
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 19689
Abstract
This study explores the adoption of digital technology in sustainable tourism destinations and provides insights into current research. Using a bibliometric analysis approach, it comprehensively evaluates research outputs, identifies trends, and highlights key themes and collaborative networks. Employing a bibliometric analysis approach, this [...] Read more.
This study explores the adoption of digital technology in sustainable tourism destinations and provides insights into current research. Using a bibliometric analysis approach, it comprehensively evaluates research outputs, identifies trends, and highlights key themes and collaborative networks. Employing a bibliometric analysis approach, this study utilizes the Scopus database and bibliometric software. After rigorous data cleaning, bibliographic coupling maps, collaboration networks, and keyword maps are generated using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer for comprehensive analysis. Analyzing 559 papers, the study reveals a consistent growth in publications, indicating increasing research interest in digital technology adoption in sustainable tourism destinations. Europe, Asia, and North America are the primary regions of research activity. Interdisciplinary collaboration is high, emphasizing the multidimensional nature of the field. While valuable, the bibliometric analysis is limited by data availability and quality in the Scopus database. Relevant research outputs may be excluded. The study focuses on overall trends and patterns rather than individual paper content. The study’s findings have practical implications for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in sustainable tourism. The identification of key themes and collaborative networks can guide future research and foster interdisciplinary collaborations. This study contributes to the existing literature on technological innovations in sustainable tourism destinations through its bibliometric analysis approach. Through providing an overview of the research landscape, identifying trends and collaborative networks, it offers valuable insights into the current state of research. The findings serve as a foundation for further exploration and advancement in sustainable tourism and digital technology. Full article
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Review

Jump to: Research

20 pages, 1261 KiB  
Review
Building a Sustainable Future: Challenges, Opportunities, and Innovative Strategies for Destination Branding in Tourism
by Eliyas Ebrahim Aman, Árpád Ferenc Papp-Váry, Deborah Kangai and Sebastian Ongango Odunga
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 312; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14120312 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 615
Abstract
The current sustainability concerns affect visitors’ behavior and competitiveness of destinations. For these reasons, the destinations need sustainable and innovative branding to address sustainability concerns, stand out in a competitive market, meet changing visitor preferences, and ensure long-term competitiveness in a dynamic global [...] Read more.
The current sustainability concerns affect visitors’ behavior and competitiveness of destinations. For these reasons, the destinations need sustainable and innovative branding to address sustainability concerns, stand out in a competitive market, meet changing visitor preferences, and ensure long-term competitiveness in a dynamic global environment. In this regard, identifying and understanding challenges, opportunities, and innovative strategies are critically important. An integrative literature review method was employed using the Scopus database. The study identified major challenges, such as growing environmental concerns, the dynamic advancement of new technologies and artificial intelligence, health and safety concerns, diversity and inclusion, economic and geopolitical uncertainties, local community engagement, and competitive markets. Conversely, responsible tourism, the digital landscape, wellness and health, cultural festivals and events, accessibility and inclusivity, creative industries, and authenticity have been identified as future tourism branding opportunities. Based on the literature insights, the paper provides readers with essential information and advances the field of tourism and hospitality as it identifies challenges, opportunities, and innovative branding strategies in the industry. Furthermore, this work contributes to existing literature and proposes future research agendas. Full article
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26 pages, 3640 KiB  
Review
Exploring the Landscape of Smart Tourism: A Systematic Bibliometric Review of the Literature of the Internet of Things
by Albérico Travassos Rosário and Joana Carmo Dias
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14020022 - 23 Jan 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 7473
Abstract
This study explores the transformative impact of IoT technologies on smart tourism, striving to boost operational efficiency and enrich the traveler experience. Using a systematic literature review with bibliometric analysis, we examined a sample of 83 studies indexed in SCOPUS to identify research [...] Read more.
This study explores the transformative impact of IoT technologies on smart tourism, striving to boost operational efficiency and enrich the traveler experience. Using a systematic literature review with bibliometric analysis, we examined a sample of 83 studies indexed in SCOPUS to identify research activity on this topic until November 2023. The integration of cutting-edge technologies, including big data, smart sensors, cloud computing, machine learning, artificial intelligence, wearables, mobile applications, augmented reality, and virtual reality, establishes the foundation of the IoT-enabled smart tourism ecosystem. These innovations bring distinct capabilities, from facilitating data collection with embedded sensor technologies to using cloud computing for essential services like data storage and analytics. Examining various IoT applications in smart tourism, such as recommender systems, smart cities, payment systems, and electronic ticketing, reveals their positive effects on safety, efficiency, and personalized services. However, challenges like security, privacy, software complexity, scalability, and interoperability necessitate robust measures. This study identifies future research directions, including enhancing security and privacy, exploring blockchain integration, investigating edge computing, and improving interactions between tourists and smart tourism systems. These endeavors aim to address challenges and seize opportunities, fostering innovative solutions for the evolving needs of the tourism industry in a technologically advanced landscape. Full article
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